Influenza is a most common and contagious viral infection that attacks upper respiratory system including nose, throat and lungs. It’s commonly known as Flu. Influenza represents with variants of virus; Type A, B & C. Depending upon their health impact and severity the management varies. Most common and vulnerable flu virus in Influenza A.
• Causative Factors:
- Droplet spray of infected people
- Contaminated surface
- Contaminated food items
• Risk Factors:
Young children under the age of 5.
Elderly over the age of 65.
Weak / Low Immunity.
Existing ailments; asthma, cardiac disease, kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, etc.
Healthcare Professionals (HCP)
Pregnant women.
Gross obesity, BMI 40
Signs & Symptoms
Fever over 100.4 F (38 C)
Myalgia “Aching muscles”
Chills & Cold Sweats
Headache & Heaviness of head (Forehead/Orbital)
Dry - Irritative cough
Nasal congestion / Fluent Discharge
Watery eyes (Acrid lachrymation)
Sore throat
Fatigue and weakness
Management:
• Prevention - Do’s & Don’ts
• Fluids: Drink plenty of fluids, like, plain water, fresh juice and warm soups to prevent dehydration.
• Rest: Proper rest gives body a chance to fight.
• Hot water gurgling: To reduce sore throat.
• Hot Drinks: Soups, Green-ginger Tea, etc.
• Honey-Lemon: drink warm water with lemon-honey to boost your immunity.
• Steam: Inhale hot steam to clear nasal blockage and decongestion.
• Breathing Exercise: Do 5 minutes of alternate nostril breathing to ease.
• Conventional Management
Antipyretic: To reduce increased temperature.
Analgesic: To reduce body and muscle ache.
Anti-allergic medication
Emergency approach: during an acute attack causing increased heart rate or respiratory distress.
• Alternative Management
Holistic science of Homeopathy plays an important role in treating allergies without any adverse effects. The common symptoms in Flu are well controlled and managed by homeopathic medicines. The totality of symptoms are considered during the treatment for individualizing and selection of the remedy.
The top homeopathic medicines used are Aconite, Allium C, Arsenic Alb, Ars Iod, Belladonna, Eupartorium P, Ferrum Phos,Gelsemium, Influenzinum, Kali Mur, Mercurious Sol, etc.
Stay Home, Stay Healthy
Dr Harkirat S Wilkhoo
Specialist Homeopath
Specialist Lifestyle Medicine
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